Sodium Metasilicate: What It Is and Why It’s Used
If you’ve ever looked at the ingredient label on a household cleaner and stumbled upon sodium metasilicate, you’re not alone in wondering what it is and whether it’s safe. Many people searching for non-toxic or eco-friendly products feel frustrated when they come across unfamiliar chemical names that sound harsh or synthetic. But not all chemical-sounding ingredients are harmful. In fact, some, like sodium metasilicate, are both effective and safe when used correctly.
Let’s break it down in simple terms, so you can feel confident about what’s going into your home and why it's there.
What is Sodium Metasilicate?
Sodium metasilicate is a mineral-derived cleaning agent commonly found in eco-conscious and industrial-strength cleaning products. It’s a white, powdered salt that dissolves in water and works in multiple ways:
- Breaks down grease and protein-based stains
- Softens water for more efficient cleaning
- Protects metal surfaces from corrosion
Because of these powerful properties, it’s a go-to ingredient for both household and commercial cleaners, especially where tough grime or hard water is a problem.
How We Use Sodium Metasilicate at Rustic Strength
At Rustic Strength, we prioritize clean, non-toxic ingredients that are effective without compromising safety or sustainability. Sodium metasilicate plays a key role in our Automatic Dishwasher Detergent Powder, where it helps:
- Cut through stuck-on food and residue
- Enhance water softness for sparkling dishes
- Prevent mineral buildup in dishwashers
We use it because it works—without relying on synthetic fragrances, dyes, or unnecessary fillers.
Is Sodium Metasilicate Safe?
Yes—when used as directed, sodium metasilicate is considered non-toxic and biodegradable. That makes it a great choice for people looking for safer, environmentally friendly cleaning alternatives.
However, there’s a catch: in its concentrated form, sodium metasilicate is classified as corrosive. This doesn’t mean it’s unsafe in finished products like our detergent—it just means that raw material handlers need protective gear like gloves and goggles. Once diluted and properly formulated, it’s safe for regular use around the home.
How to Tell if a Product Contains Sodium Metasilicate
When shopping for a product with sodium metasilicate:
- Look for transparent ingredient lists
- Choose brands that disclose concentrations and focus on non-toxic formulations
- Avoid products with added synthetic dyes or fragrances
Key Takeaways
- Sodium metasilicate is a powerful, mineral-derived cleaning agent.
- It breaks down grease, softens water, and protects metal.
- When used in properly formulated products, it’s non-toxic and biodegradable.
- Handle raw or concentrated forms with care—wear gloves and goggles.
- Choose clean, transparent brands that prioritize safety and sustainability.
In Summary:
Sodium metasilicate might sound intimidating, but it's a safe, biodegradable, and highly effective ingredient when used correctly in eco-friendly cleaning products. At Rustic Strength, we use it intentionally—for its powerful cleaning benefits and compatibility with non-toxic living. By understanding how to read labels and choose transparent brands, you can feel confident about what you're bringing into your home. Clean ingredients. Honest practices. That's the Rustic Strength promise.
FAQ: Sodium Metasilicate – Quick Answers
1. Is sodium metasilicate harmful to humans?
In its raw, concentrated form, it can irritate skin and eyes. But in diluted, properly formulated products, it’s considered safe and non-toxic for home use.
2. Is sodium metasilicate environmentally friendly?
Yes! It’s biodegradable and does not bioaccumulate in the environment, making it a smart choice for eco-conscious cleaning.
3. What products typically contain sodium metasilicate?
You’ll find it in dishwasher detergents, industrial cleaners, laundry boosters, and sometimes in degreasers or water treatment solutions.
4. Can sodium metasilicate be used on all surfaces?
It’s safe for most hard surfaces, especially metal and glass. However, avoid using it on delicate surfaces like aluminum, painted finishes, or untreated wood.
Why Transparency Matters to Us
At Rustic Strength, every ingredient we use including sodium metasilicate is chosen with care, tested for safety, and openly shared with you. Our commitment to transparency comes from a deeply personal place. When our founders, Alicia and Brandon, faced a health crisis with their young son, they realized just how hidden and misleading conventional product labels can be. Their search for truly safe alternatives was frustrating—and eye-opening.
That’s why we don’t just promise purity, we prove it. From our Automatic Dishwasher Detergent Powder to every product we offer, you’ll always find a full list of ingredients and the science behind why they’re there. No gimmicks. No greenwashing. Just honest, non-toxic products you can trust.
We believe you deserve to know exactly what you're bringing into your home—because knowledge isn’t just empowering, it’s essential to protecting your health and your loved ones. Even if you choose another brand, we hope this blog helps you make better, more informed decisions.
Want help choosing the safest cleaning products for your home? Browse our full line of non-toxic household essentials, made with integrity and ingredient transparency.
We invite you to do your own research!
Scientific journals and articles are the foundation of evidence-based decisions at Rustic Strength.
Sources
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Safer Chemical Ingredients List
Retrieved from: https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice/safer-ingredients -
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) – Sodium Metasilicate: Chemical Safety Profile
Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/npgd0563.html -
PubChem, National Library of Medicine – Sodium Metasilicate Compound Summary
Retrieved from: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Sodium-metasilicate -
European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) – Substance Information: Sodium Metasilicate
Retrieved from: https://echa.europa.eu/substance-information/-/substanceinfo/100.029.000 -
American Cleaning Institute (ACI) – Ingredient Safety Overview
Retrieved from: https://www.cleaninginstitute.org -
TOXNET Archive, U.S. National Library of Medicine – Toxicological Profile: Sodium Metasilicate
Retrieved from: https://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov -
Rustic Strength – Automatic Dishwasher Detergent Powder – Ingredient Use and Transparency
Retrieved from: https://rusticstrength.com/products/dishwasherdetergentpowder
